Ukrainian man accused of attacks on Starmer's property denies knowing British PM
Photo: British Prime Minister Keir Starmer (Getty Images)
A Ukrainian man accused of setting fire to properties linked to British Prime Minister Keir Starmer told police during questioning that he had never heard of the politician, the BBC reports.
Case details and recruitment
According to the outlet, Roman Lavrynovych is one of three men charged over attacks on property and a vehicle connected to Starmer. Along with Petro Pochynok and Stanislav Carpiuc, he denies all allegations.
Investigators believe Lavrynovych carried out the arson attacks after being recruited online by a Russian-speaking Telegram user known as El Money.
According to prosecutors, he was promised financial compensation for completing the tasks.
Police questioning
During police interviews, Lavrynovych repeatedly denied knowing who the British Prime Minister was.
He also rejected claims that he held "any grudges" against the UK government.
"I just want to ask you about our prime minister. Do you know who that is?" a detective asked.
"No," Lavrynovych replied.
Photo: Roman Lavrynovych is one of three men accused of attacking property linked to Keir Starmer (bbc.com)
The defendant later told police he acted because of financial difficulties and threats from the recruiter.
"He said that once done, he would pay me, and I trusted him. I needed the money. He has not paid me, though," Lavrynovych said.
The two other defendants, Carpiuc and Pochynok, reportedly made no comments during police questioning.
Court proceedings in the case are ongoing.
Case details
Between April 1 and May 13, 2025, several attacks targeted property and a vehicle linked to Keir Starmer.
On May 8, a car previously owned by the Prime Minister was found burning in Kentish Town. Days later, another fire was discovered near the entrance to his home.
Investigators believe the attacks may have been part of a broader destabilization campaign linked to Russian networks. Russia actively uses recruiters to involve foreigners and migrants in sabotage operations and military activities.
The United Kingdom has also imposed sanctions on 35 individuals and organizations allegedly involved in recruiting migrants to support Russia’s war against Ukraine and drone production efforts.
Meanwhile, reports suggest Russia is expanding its foreign recruitment networks, including efforts targeting citizens from around 40 African countries to participate in the war against Ukraine.
